Domenico Gaetano Maria Donizetti was a noteworthy figure in the world of 19th-century opera, contributing significantly to the evolution of the art form. He is celebrated for his vast repertoire of operas, written in both Italian and French, and his work is widely recognized as a bridge between the styles of Gioachino Rossini and Giuseppe Verdi. Donizetti’s operas are renowned for their emotional depth and dramatic weight, as well as their sparkling wit and gaiety when it comes to his comic pieces.
Early Life and Education
The youngest of three siblings, Donizetti was born in the humble surroundings of a windowless cellar in Bergamo’s Borgo Canale quarter, situated just outside the city walls. His family was far from wealthy, and music was not a part of their tradition. His father, Andrea, worked as the caretaker for the town pawnshop.
Donizetti’s life took a fortunate turn when he was discovered by German composer, Simon Mayr, who was then the maestro di cappella at Bergamo’s main church, and also a successful opera composer. Mayr perceived Donizetti’s nascent musical talent and ensured his enrollment into the Lezioni Caritatevoli school, which he had established in Bergamo. Here, Donizetti received an extensive musical education.
Career Trajectory
Donizetti’s first operatic success came with the production of “Enrico di Borgogna” at the Teatro San Luca in Venice in 1818. However, it was the opera “Anna Bolena,” produced in Milan in 1830, that catapulted him to international fame. This success marked a turning point in his career, and he became one of the leading opera composers of his time.
In 1832, he created the comic opera “L’elisir d’amore,” which was well-received for its charm and character. This was followed by the tragic “Lucrezia Borgia” in 1833. His tragic masterpiece, “Lucia di Lammermoor,” premiered in 1835, and quickly became an internationally acclaimed masterpiece.
Life in Naples
In 1822, Donizetti relocated to Naples, where he was to remain for a significant portion of his life. Here, he composed several operas, including “La Zingara” and “La lettera anonima,” while also taking on a teaching role at Naples Conservatoire. Despite being deeply rooted in Neapolitan culture, Donizetti was regarded as a “foreigner,” which led to some friction.
International Success
In the late 1830s, frustrated by royal censors and personal setbacks, Donizetti decided to leave Naples. He moved to Paris, where he composed the opera comique “La fille du Regiment,” which was lauded for its charm and virtuosity. This was followed by “La favorite,” another major contribution to the French opera repertoire.
In 1842, Donizetti was appointed the kapellmeister of the Austrian court in Vienna, but he maintained his connection with Paris, frequently traveling between the two cities and Italy.
Later Years and Legacy
Among Donizetti’s last operas are “Maria di Rohan” and “Dom Sebastian,” both of which set the standard for Verdi. Around this time, the effects of syphilis, which he had suffered from since the late 1820s, began to severely impact his health. He was confined to an institution outside of Paris in early 1846, but was later released to friends who moved him back to Bergamo. He passed away in April 1848.
Donizetti’s life, which spanned from humble beginnings to worldwide fame, epitomized the romantic narrative of his era. His operas, renowned for their emotive quality and unforgettable melodies, continue to be celebrated and performed today, solidifying his status as a maestro of bel canto opera.